Article carrier and blank therefor

ABSTRACT

Aspects of the disclosure relate to an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles, a blank for forming the article carrier. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure and defining an interior thereof. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of opposed end panels. The article carrier further comprises a partition structure for dividing the interior into two or more article-receiving cells. A primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line, the primary partition panel comprises the partition structure. The partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap. The at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint. The distal end joint is adjoined by a tab interrupting the first fold line. The tab protrudes from the end panel into the primary partition panel to be in close proximity or contact with the distal end joint.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to carriers and to blanks for forming the same. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a carrier having a partition structure feature defining cells or compartments within an interior of a carrier of the basket-style.

BACKGROUND

In the field of packaging it is known to provide article carriers or cartons for carrying multiple articles. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store and access a group of articles for consumption. For cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible and cause as little wastage in the materials from which they are formed as possible. Further considerations are the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting large weights of articles. It is desirable that the contents of the carton are secure within the carton.

It is an object of the present invention to provide to a carrier having a partition structure for separating articles within an interior chamber of the carrier. It is desirable to minimise or reduce the material required to produce the carrier for economic or environmental benefit or both.

The present invention seeks to provide an improvement in the field of cartons, typically formed from paperboard or the like.

SUMMARY

A first aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure and defining an interior of the article carrier. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of opposed end panels. A primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line. The primary partition panel comprises a partition structure. The partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap. The at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint. The distal end joint is adjoined by a tab interrupting the first fold line. The tab protrudes from the end panel into the primary partition panel to be in contact with the distal end joint.

A second aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure and defining an interior of the article carrier. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of opposed end panels. A primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line. The primary partition panel comprises a partition structure. The partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap. The at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint. The distal end joint is abutted by a tab interrupting the first fold line. The tab protrudes from the end panel into the primary partition panel to be in close proximity with the distal end joint.

Advantageously, the carrier is easier to fold one of the pair of end panels with respect to the primary partition panel along a first fold line, particularly on automated packaging machinery. Additionally, or alternatively itis easier to separate the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap from the primary partition panel in the process of erecting the collapsed carton.

Optionally, the plurality of primary panels includes a side panel, the glue flap is secured to the side panel, the at least one lateral partition flap extends substantially between the side panel and the primary partition panel.

Optionally, the at least one lateral partition flap is hingedly connected to the primary partition panel at a proximal end and is secured to the side panel at a distal end by the distal end joint and glue flap.

Optionally, an end edge of the partition structure is offset with respect to the first fold line.

Optionally, an end edge of the partition structure is inset with respect to the first fold line.

Optionally, the distal end joint forms a twisted strip coupling the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap in a substantially perpendicular arrangement with respect to each other.

A third aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure and defining an interior of the article carrier. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of opposed end panels. A primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line. The primary partition panel comprises a partition structure. The partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap. The at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint. The at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are formed from the primary partition panel. The at least one lateral partition flap is separated from the glue flap along a cut line. The cut line terminates on a tear stopper element which defines in part a distal end joint between the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap. The tear stopper element comprises a first portion extending into the glue flap and a second portion extending into the at least one lateral partition flap. The first portion is greater in length than the second portion.

The first portion of stopper element being greater in length than the second portion may be advantageous in that it may enables the a region of the distal end joint between the first portion of stopper element and a free end edge of the distal end joint to bend downwardly instead of allowing a tear to develop when a carrier is erected.

Optionally, at least one of the first and second portions of the tear stopper element is curvilinear in shape.

Optionally, at least one of the first and second portions of the tear stopper element is linear in shape.

Optionally, the tear stopper element is non-linear in shape.

Optionally, at least one of the first and second portions of the tear stopper element diverges away from a free end edge of the distal end joint.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure and defining an interior of the article carrier. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of opposed end panels. A primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line. A second primary partition panel is hingedly connected to first primary partition panel along a second fold line. A securing panel is hingedly connected to the first primary partition panel. A connector panel is hingedly connected to the second primary partition panel and to the securing panel. The second primary partition panel comprises a partition structure. The partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap. The at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint. The at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are formed from the second primary partition panel. At least a part of the distal end joint is formed from the connector panel.

Optionally, the first primary partition panel comprises a further partition structure, the further partition structure comprises at least one second lateral partition flap and a second glue flap, the at least one second partition flap and the second glue flap being coupled together by a second distal end.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming walls of a tubular structure defining an interior chamber. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of opposed end panels. A primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line. The primary partition panel comprises a partition structure. The partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap. The at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint. The distal end joint is adjoined by a tab interrupting the first fold line. The tab protrudes from the end panel into the primary partition panel to be in contact with the distal end joint.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming walls of a tubular structure defining an interior chamber. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of opposed end panels. A primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line. The primary partition panel comprises a partition structure. The partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap. The at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint. The distal end joint is abutted by a tab interrupting the first fold line. The tab protrudes from the end panel into the primary partition panel to be in close proximity with the distal end joint.

A seventh aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming walls of a tubular structure defining an interior chamber. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of opposed end panels. A primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line. The primary partition panel comprises a partition structure. The partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap. The at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint. The at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are formed from the primary partition panel. The at least one lateral partition flap is separated from the glue flap along a cut line. The cut line terminates on a tear stopper element which defines in part a distal end joint between the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap. The tear stopper element comprises a first portion extending into the glue flap and a second portion extending into the at least one lateral partition flap. The first portion is greater in length than the second portion.

An eighth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming walls of a tubular structure defining an interior chamber. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of opposed end panels. A primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line. A second primary partition panel is hingedly connected to first primary partition panel along a second fold line. A securing panel is hingedly connected to the first primary partition panel. A connector panel is hingedly connected to the second primary partition panel and to the securing panel. The second primary partition panel comprises a partition structure. The partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap. The at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint. The at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are formed from the second primary partition panel. At least a part of the distal end joint is formed from the connector panel.

Further features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and discussed below.

Within the scope of this application it is envisaged or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings may be considered or taken independently or in any combination thereof.

Features or elements described in connection with, or relation to, one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is an incompatibility of features. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated into, or combined with, any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, said features or elements extracted from said one embodiment may be included in addition to, or in replacement of one or more features or elements of said other embodiment.

A feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, a feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a first embodiment;

FIG. 1A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 1 ;

FIGS. 2A and 28 illustrate stages of construction of the blank of FIG. 1 into a flat collapsed carrier;

FIGS. 3, 4A and 48 illustrate further stages of construction of the blank of FIG. 1 into a flat collapsed carrier;

FIG. 5 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a third embodiment; and

FIG. 7 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 6 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks and cartons are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the way in which certain aspects of the invention can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word “exemplary” is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks and cartons described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the invention.

Referring to FIG. 1 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 capable of forming a carton or carrier, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles, hereinafter referred to as articles. FIGS. 5 and 6 , illustrate alternative blanks 110; 210 capable of forming a carton or carrier 290, see FIG. 7 , for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles, hereinafter referred to as articles. The blanks 10; 110; 210 each form a secondary package of the basket-carrier style for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms “carton” and “carrier” refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, to a container 290 for engaging and carrying articles, such as primary product containers. It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various product containers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Other exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminium cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like.

The blanks 10; 110; 210 are formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term “suitable substrate” includes all manner of foldable sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognised that one or other numbers of blanks may be employed, where suitable, for example, to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.

The packaging structure or carton 290 described herein may be formed from a sheet material such as paperboard, which may be made of or coated with materials to increase its strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCKE paperboard made by WestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear resistant materials may be provided by more than one layer, to help improve the tear-resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different characteristics to the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material that faces outwardly from a finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. The surface of the sheet material that faces inwardly may, on the other hand, be provided with a coating, a layer, a treatment or be otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear-resistance, good glue-ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

In the illustrated embodiment, the blanks 10; 110; 210 are configured to form a carton or carrier 290 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles. In the illustrated embodiments the arrangement is an m×n matrix or array, having two rows (m=2) and three columns (n=3); in the illustrated embodiment two rows of three articles are provided, and the articles are 11.2 fl. oz. (330 ml) bottles, the bottle may be formed from a suitable material such as, but not limited to, glass, Aluminium or PET (polyester—polyethylene terephthalate). Alternatively, the blanks 10; 110; 210 can be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, number and size of articles and/or for packaging articles in a different arrangement or configuration for example, but not limited to, fully enclosed cartons or wrap-around carriers, the articles may be cups, pouches, pots or cans.

Turning to FIGS. 1 and 1A, there is illustrated a blank 10 for forming a carton (not shown) according to a first embodiment. The blank 10 comprises a plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 comprises a first outer end panel 12 (or outer layer), a first side panel 14, a second end panel 16, a second side panel 18, and a first inner end panel or securing panel (or inner layer) 20. The plurality of panels 12, 14, 18, 18, 20 may be arranged in a linear series hinged one to the next by corresponding fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19.

The blank 10 comprises a first base panel 26 a hinged to the first side panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25 a. The blank 10 comprises a second base panel 26 b hinged to the second side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25 b.

The first and second base panels 26 a. 26 b are engageable with one another in an overlapping relationship to form a composite base wall 26 a/26 b of the carrier 90. The blank 10 may comprise a complementary locking mechanism for securing the first base panel 26 a to the second base panel 26 b. The first base panel 26 a may comprise at least one first part M of the complementary locking mechanism. The second base panel 26 b may comprise at least one second part F of the complementary locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, the first base panel 26 a comprises four male tabs M struck therefrom so as to be defined within the first base panel 26 a. Each of the male tabs M is hingedly connected to the first base panel 26 a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

The second part F of the complementary locking mechanism forms a receiver. The receiver comprises an opening or slot for receiving the male tab M.

The second base panel 26 b comprises four optional female tabs each defining an opening or slot in the second base panel 26 b; the female tabs forming at least part of the receiver.

The openings in the second base panel 26 b are configured to receive respective ones of the male tabs M.

The female tabs are arranged to be displaced out of the second base panel 26 b to form said openings and to bear against the respective male tab M when received therein. In some embodiments the complementary locking mechanism M/F may be omitted, the first and second base panels 26 a, 26 b may be secured to each other by other means, such as but not limited to adhesive or staples.

Optionally, the first and second base panels 26 a, 26 b may comprise at least one first aperture A1. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second base panels 26 a, 26 b comprises four first apertures A1. The first apertures A1 may be employed to facilitate construction of the carton 90. A packaging machine component or tool may engage with the first apertures A1 to facilitate alignment of the first and second base panels 26 a, 26 b with respect to each other or to align the first part M of the complementary locking mechanism with the second part F of the complementary locking mechanism. The complementary locking mechanism illustrated and described is entirely optional.

The blank 10 comprises a medial structure including a first medial panel 22 and a second medial panel 24.

The first medial panel 22 is hingedly connected at a first end to the first inner end panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 21.

The second medial panel 24 is hingedly connected to the first medial panel 22 along a lower edge thereof by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23.

The first and second medial panels 22, 24 form a divider extending longitudinally between the first inner and outer end panels 12, 20 and the second end panel 16.

The first medial panel 22 provides a first handle structure H1. The second medial panel 24 provides a second handle structure H2. Together the first and second medial panels 22, 24 provide a two-ply handle structure, the second ply reinforcing the first ply.

The first handle structure H1 comprises a first handle opening.

The first handle opening may be defined in part by a first handle aperture A2 struck from an upper portion of the first medial panel 22.

The first handle structure H1 may comprise one or more optional cushioning flaps 60, 62,64 struck from the first medial panel 22 and hinged thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 61. The cushioning flaps 60, 62, 64 define at least a part of the first handle opening. The illustrated embodiment comprises three cushioning flaps 60, 62, 64.

The second handle structure H2 comprises a second handle opening.

The second handle opening may be defined in part by a second handle aperture A3 struck from, or defined within, an upper portion of the second medial panel 24.

The second handle opening is arranged to be disposed in registry or alignment with the first handle opening.

The blank 10 comprises an optional handle reinforcing panel 30. The handle reinforcing panel 30 is hingedly connected to the first medial panel 22 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 29. The handle reinforcing panel 30 is disposed alongside the second side panel 18 and the first inner end panel 20 and is separated therefrom by a cut line or severable line. The handle reinforcing panel 30 is coupled to the second end panel 16 by a connecting panel 32. The connecting panel 32 is hingedly connected to the handle reinforcing panel 30 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 31. The connecting panel 32 is hingedly connected to the second end panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

The handle reinforcing panel 30 provides a third handle structure H3. The third handle structure H3 comprises a third handle opening. Together the first and second medial panels 22, 24 and handle reinforcing panel 30 provide a three-ply handle structure, the third ply reinforces the first and second plies.

The third handle opening may be defined in part by a third handle aperture struck from the handle reinforcing panel 30.

The third handle structure H3 may comprise one or more optional cushioning flaps struck from the handle reinforcing panel 30 and hinged thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The cushioning flaps define at least a part of the third handle opening. The illustrated embodiment comprises three cushioning flaps.

The blank 10 comprises a medial partition glue flap 28 hingedly connected to the first medial panel 22 along a second end (the second end opposes the first end; the first end is defined by fold line 21) by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27.

The blank 10 comprises a first partition structure P1, best shown in FIG. 1A. The first partition structure P1 defines or creates a plurality of cells disposed between the first side panel 14 and the first medial panel 22. The first side panel 14 and the first medial panel 22 along with portions of the first and second end panels 12, 16 define a tubular structure or first compartment on a first side of the medial structure.

The first compartment provides an interior for receiving at least a lower portion of one or more articles.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a first partition panel 50 struck from the first medial panel 22 and hingedly connected, at a first or proximal end, thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 51.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a second partition panel 54 struck from the first medial panel 22 and hingedly connected, at first or a proximal end, thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 55.

The first and second partition panels 50, 54 are dimensioned to extend between the first medial panel 22 and the first side panel 14 in a set up condition.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a first glue panel 52 to which the first and second partition panels 50, 54 are each coupled by distal end joints.

The first partition panel 50, second partition panel 54, and first glue panel 52 are defined in part by cut lines or severance lines 57 c, 57 e, 57 d. The first partition panel 50, second partition panel 54, and first glue panel 52 are separated from the first medial panel 22 by the severance lines 57 c. 57 e, 57 d. The first partition panel 50, second partition panel 54, and first glue panel 52 may be severably coupled to the first medial panel 22 by one or more connecting portions or nicks which interrupt the severance lines 57 c, 57 e, 57 d.

The second partition panel 54 is disposed alongside the first glue panel 52 and is separated therefrom by a cut line or severance line 57 a/57 b. The second partition panel 54 may be severably coupled to the first glue panel 52 by one or more connecting portions or nicks which interrupt the cut line or severance line 57 b.

The first partition panel 50 is hingedly connected, at a second or distal end, to a first end of the first glue panel 52 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 53. Fold line 53 defines an outer end of the first partition panel 50, fold line 51 defines an inner end of the first partition panel 50 a linear dimension d2 is defined therebetween.

The second partition panel 54 is hingedly connected, at a second or distal end, to a second end of the first glue panel 52 by a twistable strip 56, formed in part from a distal end portion of the second partition panel 54 and in part from a second end portion of the first glue panel 52.

The twistable strip 56 extends between, and joins with, the second partition panel 54 and the first glue panel 52.

The twistable strip is defined in part by a cut line 59. Cut line 59 may be non-linear, optionally arcuate or curvilinear.

The second partition panel 54 has a length defined by a first distance, denoted by dimension arrow d1 in FIG. 1 , the first distance d1 is defined by a linear dimension extending between a proximal end fold line 51 of the first partition panel 50 and a distal end edge E1 of the second partition panel 54. The first distance d1 is generally equal to or less than a second distance between the first medial panel 22 and the first side wall panel 14 in a setup carrier 90.

The distal end portion of the second partition panel 54 is disposed in vertical alignment with the second end portion of the first glue panel 52.

The twistable strip 56 may form a single joint which connects between the distal end of the second partition panel 54 and the first glue panel 52.

The first glue panel 52 may comprise a glue-free region along an end edge thereof. The end edge of the first glue panel 52 is continuous with the distal end edge E1 of the second partition panel 54. The glue-free region extends along the distal end edge E1 into the second partition panel 54.

The glue-free region extends continuously into the second partition panel 54.

The twistable strip 56 is defined at least in part by a tear stopper or element 59 disposed in at least one of the second partition panel 54 and the first glue panel 52.

The element 59 may take the form of a cutaway, extending in at least one of the second partition panel 54 and the first glue panel 52. The element 59 may be a cutline. The element 59 may be a nonlinear cutline or may be comprised of two or more divergently arranged linear cut lines. The element 59 may be arcuate or curvilinear. In other embodiments, the element 59 may be an aperture, slot, slit, oval slot or frangible line. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 , the element 59 is a curved element and extends into both the second partition panel 54 and the first glue panel 52. The curved element 59 comprises at least one terminal end which is spaced apart from an adjacent end edge of the twistable strip 56 provided by the end edge of the first glue panel 52 or by the distal end edge E1 of the second partition panel 54 or by both the end edge of the first glue panel 52 and the distal end edge E1 of the second partition panel 54.

The distal end edge E1 of the second partition panel 54 and the end edge of the first glue panel 52 are arranged to be continuous and define an end edge of the first partition structure P1.

The distal end edge E1 of the second partition panel 54 and the end edge of the first glue panel 52 are arranged to be offset with respect to the fold line 21 between the first medial panel 22 and the first inner end panel 20. A tab 58 interrupts the fold line 21 between the first medial panel 22 and the first inner end panel 20. The tab 58 is integral with first inner end panel 20 and is truck from material which would otherwise form the first medial panel 22. The tab 58 protrudes from the first inner end panel 20 into the first medial panel 22. The tab 58 may be in contact with or abut the twistable strip 56 (also referred to herein as the distal end joint).

The cut line 57 a/57 b separating the second partition panel 54 from the first glue panel 52 extends between the proximal end fold line 51 and the curved element 59. The curved element 59 may be formed from a C-shaped cut as illustrated in FIG. 1 . In other embodiments, the curved element 62 may be formed from a J-shaped cut, an oval slot or an aperture.

Optionally, the blank 10 comprises a second partition structure P2. The second partition structure P2 defines a plurality of cells disposed between the second side panel 18 and the second medial panel 24. The second side panel 18 and the second medial panel 24 along with portions of the first and second end panels 12, 16 define a second tubular structure or compartment on a second side of the medial structure.

The second compartment provides an interior chamber for accommodating at least a lower portion of one or more articles.

The second partition structure P2 comprises a fourth partition panel 40 struck from the second medial panel 24 and hingedly connected, at a first or proximal end, thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 41.

The second partition structure P2 comprises a fifth partition panel 44 struck from the second medial panel 24 and hingedly connected, at first or a proximal end, thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 45.

The fourth and fifth partition panels 40, 44 are dimensioned to extend between the second medial panel 24 and the second side panel 18 in a set up condition.

The second partition structure P2 comprises a second glue panel 42 to which the fourth and fifth partition panels 40, 44 are each coupled.

The fourth partition panel 40 is hingedly connected, at a second or distal end, to a first end of the glue panel 42 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 43. Fold line 43 defines an outer end of the fourth partition panel 40, fold line 41 defines an inner end of the fourth partition panel 40.

The fifth partition panel 44 is coupled, at a second or distal end, to a second end of the glue panel 42 by a distal end joint 46. The distal end joint 46 and end portions of the fourth and fifth partition panels 40, 44 are struck from the medial partition glue flap 28. The distal end joint 46 and end portions of the fourth and fifth partition panels 40, 44 define a distal end E2 of the second partition structure P2.

A cutline or severance line 47 a/47 b defines a upper (in a setup carrier) edge of the fourth partition panel 40 and an upper edge of the second glue panel 42; the cutline 47 a/47 b separates the fourth partition panel 40 from the second medial panel 24 and separates the second glue panel 42 from the fifth partition panel 44., A further cutline or severance line 47 d/47 c defines a lower edge of the fourth partition panel 40 and a lower edge of the second glue panel 42; the further cutline 47 d/47 c separates the fourth partition panel 40 from the second medial panel 24, the further cutline 47 d/47 c separates second glue panel 42 from the second medial panel 24.

Another cutline or severance line 47 e defines an upper edge of the fifth partition panel 44.

The blank 10 is foldable to form a package.

Turning to the construction of the carton, as illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 4B, the carton can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight-line machine so that the carton is not required to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment is applied to one or both of the first and second medial panels 22, 24.

The second medial panel 24 is folded, with respect to the first medial panel 22 about fold line 23, as indicated by direction arrow D1 shown in FIG. 2B. The second medial panel 24 is secured to the first medial panel 22 in face contacting relationship therewith.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment is applied to a region of the second side panel 18. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the second glue panel 42.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment is applied to the handle reinforcing panel 30. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to corresponding regions of the first and second medial panels 22, 24.

The first medial panel 22 (and consequently the second medial panel 24) is folded, with respect to the first inner end panel 20 about fold line 21, as indicated by direction arrow D2 shown in FIG. 3 . The second medial panel 24 is brought into face to face relationship with the second side panel 18, the first inner end panel 20, and the handle reinforcing panel 30. The second glue panel 42 is secured to the second side panel 18 in face contacting relationship therewith. The handle reinforcing panel 30 is secured to the first and second medial panels 22, 24.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment is applied to a region of the second end panel 16. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the medial partition glue flap 28.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment is applied to a region of the first side panel 14. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the first glue panel 52.

The second side panel 18, together with the first and second medial panels 22, 24, second base panel 26B, and first inner end panel 20, is folded about the fold line 17 to bring the first medial panel 22 into face to face relationship with the second end panel 16 and the first side panel 14, as indicated by direction arrow D3 in FIG. 4A.

The medial partition glue flap 28 is secured to the second end panel 16.

The first glue panel 52 is secured to the first side panel 14.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first outer end panel 12. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a corresponding region of the first inner end panel 20.

The first outer end panel 12 is folded about the fold line 13, as indicated by direction arrow D4 in FIG. 4B, so as to be disposed in face to face relationship with the first inner end panel 20.

The first outer end panel 12 is secured to the first inner end panel 20. In this way a flat collapsed tubular structure is formed. The flat collapsed carrier can be readily shipped or distributed in the flat condition to a plant for erecting and loading with primary product containers.

The flat collapsed carrier can be opened into a basket-style article carrier by separating the first and second side panels 14, 18 to form a tubular structure defined by the main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20. The main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 define an interior chamber. The partition structures P1, P2 are automatically erected when the flat collapsed carrier is opened out or erected into the tubular form.

Once the carrier is erected, the first and second medial panels 22, 24 form a partition, that is disposed medially within the interior of the carrier formed by the main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20. The partition divides the interior of the carrier into two separate compartments on opposing sides of the first and second medial panels 22, 24.

The first partition structure P1 is automatically erected to form a first plurality of cells in a first compartment disposed on a first side of the first and second medial panels 22, 24.

The second partition structure P2 is automatically erected to form a second plurality of cells in a second compartment disposed on a second side of the first and second medial panels 22, 24.

The carrier may be loaded with a group of articles; for a carrier formed from the blank 10 of FIG. 1 six articles are arranged in a 3×2 array.

The group of articles may be loaded through a lower end of the tubular structure formed by the main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 prior to folding the first and second base panel 26 a, 26 b.

Alternatively, the group of articles may be loaded through an upper end of the tubular structure subsequent to assembly of the composite base panel 26 a, 26 b.

The second base panel 26 b is folded with respect to the second side panel 18 about fold line 25 b. The first base panel 26 a is folded with respect to the first side panel 14 about fold line 25 a. The first base panel 26 a is brought into face contacting relationship with the second base panel 26 b. The first base panel 26 a is disposed in at least partial overlapping relationship with the second base panel 26 b.

Each of the first parts M of the complementary locking mechanism is aligned with a respective one of the second parts F of the complementary locking mechanism. The first parts M of the complementary locking mechanism are folded inwardly of the interior of the carrier such that they are received by the second parts F of the complementary locking mechanism, when the second parts F of the complementary locking mechanism comprises female tabs these are also folded inwardly and may bear against the first parts M of the complementary locking mechanism.

Referring now to FIGS. 5 to 7 , there are shown alternative embodiments of the present invention. In the second and third illustrated embodiments like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100”, “200” to indicate that these features belong to the second or third embodiment respectively. The alternative embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment, and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4B will be described in any greater detail.

FIG. 5 illustrates a blank 110 for forming a carton (not shown) according to a second embodiment. The blank 110 comprises a plurality of main panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120 comprises a first outer end panel 112 (or outer layer), a first side panel 114, a second end panel 116, a second side panel 118, and a first inner end panel or securing panel (or inner layer) 120. The plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120 may be arranged in a linear series hinged one to the next by corresponding fold lines 113, 115, 117, 119.

The blank 110 comprises a first base panel 126 a hinged to the first side panel 114 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 125 a. The blank 110 comprises a second base panel 126 b hinged to the second side panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 125 b.

The blank 110 comprises a medial structure including a first medial panel 122 and a second medial panel 124.

The first medial panel 122 is hingedly connected at a first end to the first inner end panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 121.

The second medial panel 124 is hingedly connected to the first medial panel 122 along a lower edge thereof by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 123.

The blank 110 comprises an optional handle reinforcing panel 130. The handle reinforcing panel 130 is hingedly connected to the first medial panel 122 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 129. The handle reinforcing panel 130 is disposed alongside the second side panel 118 and the first inner end panel 120 and is separated therefrom by a cut line or severable line. The handle reinforcing panel 130 is coupled to the second end panel 118 by a connecting panel 132.

The blank 110 comprises a medial partition glue flap 128 (also referred to herein as a securing panel) hingedly connected to the first medial panel 122 along a second end (the second end opposes the first end; the first end is defined by fold line 121) by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 127.

The blank 110 comprises a coupling flap 170 hingedly connected to the medial partition glue flap 128 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 171.

The coupling flap 170 is hingedly connected to the second medial panel 124 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 173.

The fold line 173 is interrupted by a distal end portion of the second partition structure P2. A distal end joint 146 is struck from the coupling flap 170. A distal end portion of the fifth partition panel 144 may be struck from the coupling flap 170. An end portion of the second glue panel 142 may be struck from the coupling flap 170.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5 , the tab 58 of the embodiment of FIG. 1 has been omitted. The distal end edge of the second partition panel 54 is collinear with the fold line 121 between the first medial panel 122 and the first inner end panel 120. In other embodiments, the tab 58 of the embodiment of FIG. 1 may be employed in the blank 110.

Referring now to the embodiment of FIG. 9 there is shown a third illustrated embodiment. The blank 210 comprises a plurality of main panels 212, 214, 216A, 2168, 218, 220 forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 212, 214, 216A, 2168, 218, 220 comprises a first first end panel portion 212, a first side panel 214, a second end panel 216A. 2168, a second side panel 218, and a second first end panel portion 220. The plurality of panels 212, 214, 216A, 216B, 218, 220 may be arranged in a linear series hinged one to the next by corresponding fold lines 213, 215, 217, 219. The second end panel 216A, 2168 comprises a first part hingedly connected to a second part 216B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 211.

The blank 210 comprises a first base panel 226 a hinged to the first side panel 214 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 225 a. The blank 210 comprises a second base panel 226 b hinged to the second side panel 218 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 225 b.

The blank 210 comprises a riser panel 238 hingedly connected to the first first end panel portion 212 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 235. The riser panel 238 is interrupted by, or comprises, a recess which is arranged to accommodate a partition structure P1, P2. One or more panels of the partition structure P1, P2 pass through the recess when the carrier 290 is erected.

The blank 210 comprises a medial structure including a first medial panel 222 and a second medial panel 224.

The first medial panel 222 is hingedly connected at a first end to the second first end panel portion 220 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 221.

The second medial panel 224 is hingedly connected to the first medial panel 222 along a lower edge thereof by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 223.

An upper portion of the first medial panel 222 comprises a first handle structure H1. The first handle structure comprises a handle opening defined by a first handle aperture A3 struck from the first medial panel 222.

The second medial panel 224 comprises a recess struck from a free edge forming an upper edge in a setup carrier 290. The recess is arranged to be in registry with a portion of the first handle aperture A3.

The blank 210 may comprise a pair of handle reinforcing panels 230, 234. A first handle reinforcing panel 230 is hingedly connected to a second handle reinforcing panel 234 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 229. The first handle reinforcing panel 230 is disposed alongside the second side panel 218 and the second part 216B of the second end panel 216A/216B and is separated therefrom by a cut line or severable line. The second handle reinforcing panel 234 is disposed alongside the first side panel 214 and the first part 216A of the second end panel 216A/216B and is separated therefrom by a cut line or severable line. The first handle reinforcing panel 230 is coupled to the second first end panel portion 220 by a first connecting panel 232. The first connecting panel 232 is hingedly connected to the first handle reinforcing panel 230 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 231. The second handle reinforcing panel 234 is coupled to the first first end panel portion 212 by a second connecting panel 236. The second connecting panel 236 is hingedly connected to the second handle reinforcing panel 234 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 233.

Each of the first and second handle reinforcing panels 230, 234 comprises a handle structure H2, H3. The handle structures H2, H3 each comprise a handle opening. The handle openings are each defined at least in part by a handle aperture A5. The handle openings may be defined in part by a cushioning flap 260 struck from the respective one first and second handle reinforcing panels 230, 234 and hinged thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 261.

The blank 210 comprises a medial partition glue flap 228 hingedly connected to the first medial panel 222 along a second end (the second end opposes the first end; the first end is defined by fold line 221) by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 227.

Each of the first and second medial panels 222, 224 comprises a partition structure P1, P2. A first partition structure P1 is struck from the first medial panel 222 and a second partition structure P2 is struck from the second medial partition structure 224. The first partition structure P1 is substantially similar in construction to the first partition structure P1 of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 . The first partition structure P1 comprises a tear stopper or element 259 disposed at the end of a cutline 257 b separating a second partition panel 254 from a first glue panel 252. The tear stopper or element 259 comprises a curvilinear portion on opposing sides of the cut line 257 b. A first curvilinear portion partially separates a distal end joint 258 from the second partition panel 254. A second curvilinear portion partially separates a distal end joint 256 from the first glue panel 252. The first curvilinear portion is smaller in dimension, shorter in length, than the second curvilinear portion. The first curvilinear portion may comprise a smaller radius of curvature than the second curvilinear portion. In some embodiments a linear portion may couple or join the first and second curvilinear portions.

In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the tear stopper or element 59 comprises a curvilinear portion on one side of the cut line 57 b. A first linear portion partially separates a distal end joint 56 from the second partition panel 54. A second curvilinear portion partially separates a distal end joint 56 from the first glue panel 52. The first linear portion is smaller in dimension, shorter in length, than the second curvilinear portion.

In some embodiments the first linear portion or first curvilinear portion may be omitted.

The present disclosure provides an article carrier 290 for packaging articles and a blank 10; 110; 210 for forming the article carrier 290. The article carrier 290 comprises a plurality of primary panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120; 212, 214, 216A/216B, 218, 220 for forming a tubular structure and defining interior of the article carrier 290. The plurality of primary panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120; 212, 214, 216A/216B, 218, 220 includes a pair of opposed end panels 12/20, 16; 112/120,116; 212/220, 216A/216B. A medial or primary partition panel 22; 122; 222 is hingedly connected to an end panel 20; 120; 220 along a first fold line 29; 129; 229. The primary partition panel 22; 122; 222 comprises a partition structure P1. The partition structure P1 comprises at least one lateral partition flap 54; 154; 254 and a glue flap 52; 152; 252, the at least one lateral partition flap 54; 154; 254 and the glue flap 52; 152; 252 being coupled together by a distal end joint 56; 156; 256. The distal end joint 56; 256 may be adjoined by a tab 58; 258 interrupting the first fold line 29; 229. The tab 58; 258 protrudes from the end panel 20; 220 into the primary partition panel 22; 222 to be in close proximity or contact with the distal end joint 56; 256. The tab 58; 258 may abut the distal end joint 56; 256.

The plurality of primary panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120; 212, 214, 216A/216B, 218, 220 includes a side panel 14, 18; 114; 118; 214, 218, the glue flap 52:152; 252 is secured to the side panel 14, 18; 114; 118; 214, 218. The at least one lateral partition flap 54; 154; 254 extends substantially between the side panel 14, 18; 114, 118; 214, 218 and the primary partition panel 22; 122; 222. The at least one lateral partition flap 54; 154; 254 is hingedly connected to the primary partition panel 22; 122; 222 at a proximal end and is secured to the side panel 14, 18; 114, 118; 214, 218 at a distal end by the distal end joint 56; 156; 256 and glue flap 52; 152; 252.

An end edge E1 of the partition structure P1 is offset, inset (by an offset distance d3), with respect to the first fold line 29; 229. The tab 58; 258 extends from the first fold line 29; 129; 229 a distance substantially equal to the offset distance d3.

In a setup carton 290 the distal end joint 56; 156; 256 forms a twisted strip coupling the at least one lateral partition flap 54; 154; 254 and the glue flap 52; 152; 252 in a substantially perpendicular arrangement with respect to each other.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 290 for packaging articles and a blank 10; 110; 210 for forming the article carrier 290. The article carrier 290 comprises a plurality of primary panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120; 212, 214, 216A/216B, 218, 220 for forming a tubular structure and defining interior of the article carrier 290. The plurality of primary panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120; 212, 214, 216A/216B, 218, 220 includes a pair of opposed end panels 12/20, 16; 112/120, 116; 212/220, 216A/2168. A medial or primary partition panel 22; 122; 222 is hingedly connected to an end panel 20; 120; 220 along a first fold line 29; 129; 229. The primary partition panel 22; 122; 222 comprises a partition structure P1. The partition structure P1 comprises at least one lateral partition flap 54; 154; 254 and a glue flap 52; 152; 252, the at least one lateral partition flap 54; 154; 254 and the glue flap 52; 152; 252 being coupled together by a distal end joint 56; 156; 256. The at least one lateral partition flap 54; 154; 254 and the glue flap 52; 152; 252 are formed from the primary partition panel 22; 122; 222. The at least one lateral partition flap 54; 154; 254 is separated from the glue flap 52; 152; 252 along or by a cut line 57 b; 257 b. The cut line 57 b; 257 b terminates on a tear stopper element 59; 259 which defines in part a distal end joint 56; 156; 256 between the at least one lateral partition flap 54; 154; 254 and the glue flap 52; 152; 252. The tear stopper element 59; 259 comprises a first portion extending into the glue flap 52; 152; 252 and a second portion extending into the at least one lateral partition flap 54; 154; 254, the first portion being greater in length than the second portion.

At least one of the first and second portions of the tear stopper element 59; 259 maybe arcuate or curvilinear in shape.

At least one of the first and second portions of the tear stopper element 59; 259 maybe linear in shape.

The tear stopper element 59; 259 may be non-linear in shape. At least one of the first and second portions of the tear stopper element 59; 259 may diverge away from a free end edge of the distal end joint 56; 156; 256.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 290 for packaging articles and a blank 10; 110; 210 for forming the article carrier 290. The article carrier 290 comprises a plurality of primary panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120; 212, 214, 216A/216B. 218, 220 for forming a tubular structure and defining interior of the article carrier 290. The plurality of primary panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120; 212, 214, 216A/216B, 218, 220 includes a pair of opposed end panels 12/20, 16; 112/120, 116; 212/220, 216A/216B. A first medial or primary partition panel 22; 122; 222 is hingedly connected to an end panel 20; 120; 220 along a first fold line 29; 129; 229. A second medial or primary partition panel 24; 124; 224 is hingedly connected to first primary partition panel 22; 122; 222 along a second fold line 23; 123; 223. A securing panel 28; 128; 228 is hingedly connected to the first primary partition panel 22; 122; 222. A connector panel 170 (also referred to herein as coupling panel 170) is hingedly connected to the second primary partition panel 24; 124; 224 and to the securing panel 28; 128; 228. The second primary partition panel 24; 124; 224 comprises a partition structure P2. The partition structure P2 comprises at least one lateral partition flap 44; 144; 244 and a glue flap 42; 142; 242, the at least one lateral partition flap 44; 144; 244 and the glue flap 42; 142; 242 being coupled together by a distal end joint 46; 146; 246. The at least one lateral partition flap 44; 144; 244 and the glue flap 42; 142; 242 are formed from the second primary partition panel 24; 124; 224. At least a part of the distal end joint 146 is formed from the connector panel 170.

The first primary partition panel 22; 122; 222 comprises a further partition structure P1. The further partition structure P1 comprises at least one second lateral partition flap 54; 154; 254 and a second glue flap 52; 152; 252, the at least one second partition flap 54; 154; 254 and the second glue flap 52; 152; 252 being coupled together by a second distal end joint 56; 156; 256.

It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and apertures may be adjusted to accommodate articles of differing size or shape. The present invention is not limited to cartons of the basket carrier style, the invention may be employed with other carton styles such as, but not limited to, open top crates, lidded or closed top crates and fully enclosed cartons.

In one embodiment the medial panel may omitted, the partition structure may be formed from a first one of a pair of opposing wall panels, the opposing wall panels defining in part an interior of the carrier. The partition structure may divide the interior into two or more article receiving cells. The partition structure may comprise a lateral partition panels hingedly connected at a proximal end to said first one of the pair of opposing wall panels by proximal end fold line and at its distal end to a glue panel by a distal end joint. The distal end joint between the lateral partition panel and the glue panel comprises a twistable strip extending between and joined with the lateral partition panel and the glue panel. The lateral partition panel may have a length defined by a first distance defined between the proximal end fold line of the lateral partition panel and a distal end edge of the first lateral partition panel. The first distance may generally equal to or less than a second distance defined between the first panel and the second panel.

It will be recognised that as used herein, directional references such as “top”, “bottom”, “base”, “front”, “back”, “end”, “side”, “inner”, “outer”, “upper” and “lower” do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientation, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “fold line” refer to all manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank, facilitate folding portions of the blank with respect to one another, or otherwise indicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank. Any reference to “hinged connection” should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed, a hinged connection can be formed from two or more fold lines wherein each of the two or more fold lines may be either straight/linear or curved/curvilinear in shape. When linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be disposed parallel with each other or be slightly angled with respect to each other. When curvilinear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect each other to define a shaped panel within the area surrounded by the curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a pair of arched or arcuate fold lines intersecting at two points such that they define an elliptical panel therebetween. A hinged connection may be formed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a combination of a linear fold line and an arched or arcuate fold line which intersect at two points such that they define a half moon-shaped panel therebetween.

As used herein, the term “fold line” may refer to one of the following: a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, an interrupted cutline, a line of aligned slits, a line of scores and any combination of the aforesaid options.

It should be understood that hinged connections and fold lines can each include elements that are formed in the substrate of the blank including perforations, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, a cutline, an interrupted cutline, slits, scores, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness to define a fold line or a severance line or both. The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort, or to facilitate breaking with little effort.

The phrase “in registry with” as used herein refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an erected carton, such as an aperture formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second aperture formed in a second of two overlapping panels. Those elements in registry with each other may be aligned with each other in the direction of the thickness of the overlapping panels. For example, when an aperture in a first panel is “in registry with” a second aperture in a second panel that is placed in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge of the aperture may extend along at least a portion of an edge of the second aperture and may be aligned, in the direction of the thickness of the first and second panels, with the second aperture. 

1. An article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles, the article carrier comprising a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure and defining an interior of the article carrier, the plurality of primary panels including a pair of opposed end panels, wherein a primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line, the primary partition panel comprises a partition structure, the partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap, the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint, the distal end joint is adjoined by a tab interrupting the first fold line, and the tab protrudes from the end panel into the primary partition panel to be in contact with the distal end joint.
 2. An article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles, the article carrier comprising a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure and defining an interior of the article carrier, the plurality of primary panels including a pair of opposed end panels, wherein a primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line, the primary partition panel comprises a partition structure, the partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap, the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint, the distal end joint is abutted by a tab interrupting the first fold line, and the tab protrudes from the end panel into the primary partition panel to be in close proximity with the distal end joint.
 3. The article carrier of claim 1 wherein the plurality of primary panels includes a side panel, the glue flap is secured to the side panel, and the at least one lateral partition flap extends substantially between the side panel and the primary partition panel.
 4. The article carrier of claim 2 wherein the at least one lateral partition flap is hingedly connected to the primary partition panel at a proximal end and is secured to the side panel at a distal end by the distal end joint and glue flap.
 5. The article carrier of claim 1 wherein an end edge of the partition structure is offset with respect to the first fold line.
 6. The article carrier of claim 1 wherein an end edge of the partition structure is inset with respect to the first fold line.
 7. The article carrier of claim 1 wherein the distal end joint forms a twisted strip coupling the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap in a substantially perpendicular arrangement with respect to each other.
 8. An article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles, the article carrier comprising a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure and defining an interior of the article carrier, the plurality of primary panels including a pair of opposed end panels, wherein a primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line, the primary partition panel comprises a partition structure, the partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap, the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint, the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are formed from the primary partition panel, the at least one lateral partition flap is separated from the glue flap along a cut line, the cut line terminates on a tear stopper element which defines in part a distal end joint between the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap, the tear stopper element comprises a first portion extending into the glue flap and a second portion extending into the at least one lateral partition flap, the first portion being greater in length than the second portion.
 9. The article carrier of claim 8 wherein at least one of the first and second portions of the tear stopper element is curvilinear in shape.
 10. The article carrier of claim 8 wherein at least one of the first and second portions of the tear stopper element is linear in shape.
 11. The article carrier of claim 8 wherein the tear stopper element is non-linear in shape.
 12. The article carrier of claim 8 wherein at least one of the first and second portions of the tear stopper element diverges away from a free end edge of the distal end joint.
 13. An article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles, the article carrier comprising a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure and defining an interior of the article carrier, the plurality of primary panels including a pair of opposed end panels, wherein a first primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line, a second primary partition panel is hingedly connected to first primary partition panel along a second fold line, a securing panel is hingedly connected to the first primary partition panel, a connector panel is hingedly connected to the second primary partition panel and to the securing panel, the second primary partition panel comprises a partition structure, the partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap, the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint, the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are formed from the second primary partition panel, and at least a part of the distal end joint is formed from the connector panel.
 14. The article carrier of claim 13 wherein the first primary partition panel comprises a further partition structure, the further partition structure comprises at least one second lateral partition flap and a second glue flap, the at least one second partition flap and the second glue flap being coupled together by a second distal end.
 15. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of primary panels for forming walls of a tubular structure defining an interior chamber, the plurality of primary panels including a pair of opposed end panels, wherein a primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line, the primary partition panel comprises a partition structure, the partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap, the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint, the distal end joint is adjoined by a tab interrupting the first fold line, and the tab protrudes from the end panel into the primary partition panel to be in contact with the distal end joint.
 16. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of primary panels for forming walls of a tubular structure defining an interior chamber, the plurality of primary panels including a pair of opposed end panels, wherein a primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line, the primary partition panel comprises a partition structure, the partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap, the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint, the distal end joint is abutted by a tab interrupting the first fold line, and the tab protrudes from the end panel into the primary partition panel to be in close proximity with the distal end joint.
 17. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of primary panels for forming walls of a tubular structure defining an interior chamber, the plurality of primary panels including a pair of opposed end panels, wherein a primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line, the primary partition panel comprises a partition structure, the partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap, the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint, the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are formed from the primary partition panel, the at least one lateral partition flap is separated from the glue flap along a cut line, the cut line terminates on a tear stopper element which defines in part a distal end joint between the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap, the tear stopper element comprises a first portion extending into the glue flap and a second portion extending into the at least one lateral partition flap, the first portion being greater in length than the second portion.
 18. A blank for forming an article carrier of the basket carrier style, the blank comprising a plurality of primary panels for forming walls of a tubular structure defining an interior chamber, the plurality of primary panels including a pair of opposed end panels, wherein a first primary partition panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of end panels along a first fold line, a second primary partition panel is hingedly connected to first primary partition panel along a second fold line, a securing panel is hingedly connected to the first primary partition panel, a connector panel is hingedly connected to the second primary partition panel and to the securing panel, the second primary partition panel comprises a partition structure, the partition structure comprises at least one lateral partition flap and a glue flap, the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are coupled together by a distal end joint, the at least one lateral partition flap and the glue flap are formed from the second primary partition panel, and at least a part of the distal end joint is formed from the connector panel. 